When you’re a mom and is considering of allowing your small kid to own a dog. Think about several conditions that would maximize your child’s owning a pet enjoyable. Consider the size of the dog as well as the size of your kid, the family’s lifestyle and what energy level would fit best.
The temperament of the dog is also a consideration, this is the dog’s personality, choose a breed that is calmer considering that your kid is still small.
The size of the dog should be considered although it does not determine whether a dog will be good with kids. Size should be looked at in relation to both temperament and energy level. Some larger dogs tend to be tame, while some smaller dogs can be emotional. However since kids are small choose a size that will not knock them down.
Be realistic about the lifestyle you can provide to a dog, if you can’t meet a dog’s needs, his excess energy can lead to behavior problems.
Dogs from any breed can be good with children based on their past experiences, training on how to get along with kids, and personality.
No matter what the breed or breed type, all dogs have strong jaws, sharp pointy teeth, and may bite in stressful circumstances. Young children and dogs of any breed should always be supervised by an adult and never left alone together.
Small Kids in Owning a Pet
Owning a dog can boost a child’s physical well-being. Introducing kids to animals early on decreases their chances of having allergies later in life. In fact, pets have been known to boost the entire immune system, making ear infections and respiratory illnesses less likely. Plus, a dog needs to walk and run. Children will get outdoors and engage in physical activity more often when there’s a pup who needs to go out.
On the mental health side, dogs can be incredibly comforting presences in a kid’s life. Therapy dogs help people of all ages by soothing anxiety, boosting confidence in those with Autism, providing companionship and so much more. Dogs teach children what it means to follow through on responsibilities, respect boundaries and have patience.
Top 10 Small Kid Friendly Dog Breeds
What breeds make the best dog for small kids? When adding any dog to your family, it’s important that everyone is included in the decision-making process, including the kids.
1. Beagle
The Beagle’s small size (they can easily be carried!) and calm temperament make this breed a great choice for kids.
Beagles were originally kept as hunting dogs, and their sturdy build means they’re never too tired to play games. If your kids love the outdoors, this breed will fit right in, since there’s nothing they love more than exploring outside and taking to the trails.
Smart, friendly, and happy, the Beagle usually gets along with other pets, too
2. Pug
Small but requires no coddling and his roguish face soon wiggles its way into the hearts of women and especially children, for whom this dog seems to have a special affinity. His great reason for living is to be near his people and to please them. He is comfortable in a small apartment or country home alike, easily adaptable to all situations.
3. French Bulldog
The one-of-a-kind French Bulldog, with his large bat ears and even disposition, is one of the world’s most popular small-dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. The French Bulldog is playful, alert, adaptable, and completely irresistible.
4. Bichon Frise
The bichon frisé is considered a great all-around pet that is a playful yet gentle dog. Bichons get along well with other pets. They are generally considered very good with kids.
5. Boston Terriers
Make for great family pets and are known for their affectionate nature and bursts of energy. They love human interaction and like to be doted on. They are perfectly happy in smaller homes and apartments providing their exercise needs are met.
6. Cairn Terriers
Are good-tempered, affectionate dogs that make for good family pets. They’re full of energy and are highly tolerant of young children – as always, children should be taught to approach and touch dogs with care and all interactions between them should be supervised.
7. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The happy, even-tempered fur pet is a friend to all, including children—especially those who are part of the family. Sweet and affectionate, this breed enjoys cuddles and gentle play. These diminutive dogs are not fond of roughhousing, so show the kids how to interact appropriately.
8. Cocker Spaniel
A happy little dog that loves being with its favorite people. Gentle, easy-going and affectionate yet lively. They are generally considered good with children. They tend to be non-aggressive toward other animals and people, but that also means they are not particularly good watchdogs.
9. Havanese
The friendly and gentle personality of the Havanese makes them suitable for many types of homes, including apartments. They’re also a great choice for travel and RV living as they are small and do not bark much. It’s best to adopt this breed if you have plenty of time to spend with your dog.
A bichon-type dog, is the national dog of Cuba, developed from the now extinct Blanquito de la Habana. The Blanquito descended from the also now-extinct Bichón Tenerife.
10. Shih Tzu
Charming, outgoing and irresistibly cute, the Shih Tzu loves people of all ages, including well-mannered kids. Because Shih Tzu puppies are very small, some breeders may be hesitant to place Shih Tzu puppies into families with children younger than 5 years old.
The Shih Tzu is a toy dog breed originating from Tibet and having been bred from the Pekingese and the Lhasa Apso. Shih Tzus are well known for their short snout and large round eyes, as well as their ever growing coat, floppy ears, and short and stout posture.
There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship.